The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has commenced emergency asphalt restoration on the Panguil Bay Bridge in Northern Mindanao to address pavement damage caused by overloaded trucks and heavy rainfall.

DPWH Unified Project Management Office – Roads Management Cluster 2 (UPMO-RMC 2) Project Director Teresita V. Bauzon said the damage stemmed from vehicles exceeding the bridge's 30-ton design capacity before the implementation of overloading controls, compounded by heavy rainfall deteriorating the asphalt surface.

The DPWH clarified that the bridge’s structural components, including its box girders, remain unaffected, with the damage limited to sections of the asphalt pavement.

To resolve the issue, the contractor, Namkwang-Kukdong-Gumgwang Joint Venture (NKG JV), was directed to replace the damaged asphalt at no additional cost, as the project has not yet been fully completed.

Enhancements to the repairs include an improved asphalt mix design and additional waterproofing measures for durability.

Portable weighing scales have also been installed at both ends of the bridge to enforce weight limits; however, limited funding has restricted 24/7 monitoring.

Bauzon stressed the importance of strict compliance with Republic Act 8794, which regulates overloading, to preserve the bridge's long-term structural integrity.

Emergency repairs began on Dec. 1 for the Tangub City-to-Tubod direction, with the affected section expected to reopen by 7 a.m. on Dec. 2. The Tubod-to-Tangub City direction remains open for two-way traffic, with all repair works targeted for completion by Dec. 3.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution and maintain consistent speeds to ensure smooth traffic flow during the repairs.

The DPWH reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the bridge’s full functionality, ensuring traveler safety, and strengthening regional connectivity to support economic growth in the area.